Reading for February 7th

EZEKIEL'S INITIAL ORACLES AND SYMBOLIC ACTIONS
3.16-7.27 these oracles and symbolic actions are concerned with the destruction of
Jerusalem and fall of the land of Israel.

Read Ezekiel 3.16-27
In verses 16-21 God describes Ezekiel's role as the sentinel or "watchman" for Israel, who is responsible for the lives and moral guidance of the people (Jer 6.17; Hos 9.8; compare Isa 21.6).
Like sentinels posted on city walls to watch for danger (2 Sams 18.24; 2 Kings 9.17), gatekeepers are appointed from among the priests to guard the Temple (1 Chr 26).
This role, which is developed more fully in ch. 33, is consistent with ch. 18.
The prophet's responsibility is presented in four cases.
In verses 22-27 Ezekiel's isolation resembles that of Moses, who spoke directly to God in the tent of meeting (Ex 33.7-34.35; Num 11), and the high priest, who appears alone before God and the ark at Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement (Lev 16).
Ezekiel's dumbness derives from his priest role.
The priests perform their duties on the altar in silence (Lev 16).
Comments or Questions...